Scripps Lecture to Explore Crossroads of Science and Religion

Join Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego for a lively presentation at the hotly debated crossroads of science and religion. Eugenie Scott, executive director of the National Center for Science Education and an internationally known expert on the evolution-creation controversy, will present "In the Beginning: Science, Religion, and Origins" during the annual Richard H. and Glenda G. Rosenblatt Lectureship in Evolutionary Biology.

The event is scheduled for 3 p.m. on April 2, 2013, at the Robert Paine Scripps Forum for Science, Society and the Environment (Scripps Seaside Forum) on the Scripps Oceanography campus (8610 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA 92037). The event is free and the public is invited. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.

During the presentation Scott will address the origins of life, Earth, and the universe, topics pondered by religions around the world.

"Science, as a relatively recent actor on the intellectual stage, also considers these topics, coming up with answers at variance with those of most religions, including Christianity," says Scott. "How do these two approaches differ? Are there similarities? And is there an uncrossable divide between the two? The answer is not just philosophically interesting, but directly relevant to decisions being made about what to teach in public school science courses."

In her current position, Scott oversees the National Center for Science Education, a not-for-profit membership organization of scientists, teachers, and others who seek to improve the teaching of science, evolution, and climate change. A former college professor, Scott is regularly featured in news reports regarding science teaching.

Four years ago Scientific American named Scott "one of 10 outstanding leaders involved in research, business, or policy pursuits that have advanced science and technology."

She authored the book Evolution vs. Creationism: An Introduction and co-edited Not in Our Classrooms: Why Intelligent Design Is Wrong for Our Schools, in addition to many articles in science journals.

In addition to holding several honorary degrees, Scott has been honored with several prestigious awards from a long list of scientific organizations, including the National Academy of Sciences Public Welfare Medal, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility, and the California Science Teachers Association Distinguished Service Award.